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Diary of an Unauthorised Vampire: Burkenswood Mysteries 1
Current Recently divorced. Recently deceased. Recently discovered vampirism requires forms in triplicate.
Woke up dead. Rather inconvenient – and with no paperwork, I’m now an illegal vampire who can’t hug my children without wanting to eat them.
The gothic vampire matriarch who insists on keeping me in her castle finds everything deliciously dramatic. She swears I need a supernatural guardian or my powers might detonate. After my divorce, the last thing I want is to be bound to anyone.
My new job at a supernatural law firm seemed like a step in the right direction… until a magical artifact went missing and everyone started pointing fangs. Now I’m hunting for the Twilight Concordat with a purple-haired mage whose idea of fun is “light breaking and entering.” Meanwhile, Clara Blackwood, the Council’s Chief Investigator, looks at me like I’m a puzzle she can’t quite solve. I can’t decide if that makes her my worst enemy or something infinitely more dangerous.
Woke up dead. Rather inconvenient – and with no paperwork, I’m now an illegal vampire who can’t hug my children without wanting to eat them.
The gothic vampire matriarch who insists on keeping me in her castle finds everything deliciously dramatic. She swears I need a supernatural guardian or my powers might detonate. After my divorce, the last thing I want is to be bound to anyone.
My new job at a supernatural law firm seemed like a step in the right direction… until a magical artifact went missing and everyone started pointing fangs. Now I’m hunting for the Twilight Concordat with a purple-haired mage whose idea of fun is “light breaking and entering.” Meanwhile, Clara Blackwood, the Council’s Chief Investigator, looks at me like I’m a puzzle she can’t quite solve. I can’t decide if that makes her my worst enemy or something infinitely more dangerous.
- GenresParanormalVampires
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
271 people are currently reading
139 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 8, 2026
It isn’t being a lawyer
She wasn’t acting as a lawyer at the Vampire law firm. She was acting as a detective. But it was entertaining. I am glad the person I thought was going to be the bad guy, wasn’t. The route to the solution was well done. But the new Concordant seemed vague. Gillian’s new role odd. I do completely agree with who she wants to be bonded with. Totally saw that coming. I wish there were more of these books the other series was tedious.
She wasn’t acting as a lawyer at the Vampire law firm. She was acting as a detective. But it was entertaining. I am glad the person I thought was going to be the bad guy, wasn’t. The route to the solution was well done. But the new Concordant seemed vague. Gillian’s new role odd. I do completely agree with who she wants to be bonded with. Totally saw that coming. I wish there were more of these books the other series was tedious.
September 27, 2025
I’ve been reading this author for a while, and I begin reading a new book by her without finding out anything out about it. I was reading, and since I read so much and so fast, it took me forever to realize this is a very minor character from another series. I was so pumped; I was enjoying it before, but when I realized that it made it even more enjoyable. (No, you don’t need to have read the previous series to read this one, obviously.) Gillian is a great character, and we get to see previous very minor events from her point of view, and we get to know other characters better, as well. Even with all that aside, this is a well-written, entertaining, action-packed book, and I am so excited to hopefully read the next one soon to see how poor Gillian continues with her new affliction. Highy recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 17, 2026
fun read about a frazzled mum who adds vampirism into her already busy life! funny and easy to read!
December 23, 2025
I wanted to love this one as much as the Myrtlewood series but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. It was well written and fast paced but I didn’t really connect with the main character. I didn’t like the little summaries (unsure what you’d call them) throughout - I felt like it pulled me out of the flow of the story.
I did love seeing more of the Burk family though!
I did love seeing more of the Burk family though!
October 20, 2025
Real feel good witty read!!
I loved this book!!. My first read of this authors books and I'm totally disarmed. She has the complete package!! The humour is right up my alley....self deprecating, dry, witty and acerbic. Not a page went by without me chuckling, giggling or outright laughing.
Just what the doctor ordered for a feel good engrossing read.
On top of that the plot is so interesting and the pace perfect. The characters especially the lead are not just believable but lovable too.
I highly recommend this book.
I loved this book!!. My first read of this authors books and I'm totally disarmed. She has the complete package!! The humour is right up my alley....self deprecating, dry, witty and acerbic. Not a page went by without me chuckling, giggling or outright laughing.
Just what the doctor ordered for a feel good engrossing read.
On top of that the plot is so interesting and the pace perfect. The characters especially the lead are not just believable but lovable too.
I highly recommend this book.
January 16, 2026
Clever and Surprisingly Heartfelt
Diary of an Unauthorized Vampire by Iris Beaglehold is a clever, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt read that blends humor, supernatural chaos, and just enough emotional depth to keep things grounded.
The premise alone is entertaining: a vampire who very much did not sign up for this life and is now stuck dealing with the bureaucratic, social, and personal fallout of being “unauthorized.” The diary format works extremely well here—it makes the story feel intimate and immediate, and it allows the main character’s voice to really shine. The narration is witty, self-aware, and often laugh-out-loud funny, especially when it comes to poking fun at vampire tropes and supernatural politics.
One of the book’s biggest strengths is its tone. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it also doesn’t feel shallow. Beneath the humor, there’s a genuine story about identity, autonomy, and trying to build a life when everything has been forcibly changed. The protagonist is easy to root for, deeply human despite the fangs, and their internal monologue carries the book beautifully.
The world-building is creative and fun, particularly the idea of supernatural rules, enforcement, and consequences for being turned without authorization. That said, this is also where the book occasionally feels a little thin. Some concepts are introduced that I would have loved to see explored more deeply, and a few side characters feel like they had the potential for more development than they ultimately received.
Pacing-wise, the story is mostly strong, though there are a few spots in the middle where it slows slightly and leans more on internal commentary than plot movement. It never becomes boring, but it does briefly lose a bit of momentum before picking up again toward the end.
Overall, Diary of an Unauthorized Vampire is a charming, witty, and highly enjoyable read—perfect if you like humorous urban fantasy with a strong narrative voice and a fresh spin on familiar tropes. I’m giving it four stars instead of five only because I wanted a bit more depth in certain areas, but I would absolutely read more in this world and with these characters. It’s a fun, clever book that knows exactly what it wants to be and executes it well.
Diary of an Unauthorized Vampire by Iris Beaglehold is a clever, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt read that blends humor, supernatural chaos, and just enough emotional depth to keep things grounded.
The premise alone is entertaining: a vampire who very much did not sign up for this life and is now stuck dealing with the bureaucratic, social, and personal fallout of being “unauthorized.” The diary format works extremely well here—it makes the story feel intimate and immediate, and it allows the main character’s voice to really shine. The narration is witty, self-aware, and often laugh-out-loud funny, especially when it comes to poking fun at vampire tropes and supernatural politics.
One of the book’s biggest strengths is its tone. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it also doesn’t feel shallow. Beneath the humor, there’s a genuine story about identity, autonomy, and trying to build a life when everything has been forcibly changed. The protagonist is easy to root for, deeply human despite the fangs, and their internal monologue carries the book beautifully.
The world-building is creative and fun, particularly the idea of supernatural rules, enforcement, and consequences for being turned without authorization. That said, this is also where the book occasionally feels a little thin. Some concepts are introduced that I would have loved to see explored more deeply, and a few side characters feel like they had the potential for more development than they ultimately received.
Pacing-wise, the story is mostly strong, though there are a few spots in the middle where it slows slightly and leans more on internal commentary than plot movement. It never becomes boring, but it does briefly lose a bit of momentum before picking up again toward the end.
Overall, Diary of an Unauthorized Vampire is a charming, witty, and highly enjoyable read—perfect if you like humorous urban fantasy with a strong narrative voice and a fresh spin on familiar tropes. I’m giving it four stars instead of five only because I wanted a bit more depth in certain areas, but I would absolutely read more in this world and with these characters. It’s a fun, clever book that knows exactly what it wants to be and executes it well.
January 4, 2026
I finished Diary of an Unauthorised Vampire staring at the wall like… “Did I miss something?” because I am genuinely perplexed. I wanted, needed, to love this book, but instead I found myself speed-reading, not out of excitement, but out of pure determination to reach the end.
And speaking of the end… what in the vampire whiplash was that? On the same page where I’m fully convinced I’m reading the epilogue, the author suddenly starts introducing her other books. I literally paused, reread the page, and thought, “Oh, this must be part of the story.” Nope. Just vibes. Just ads. It completely broke the immersion and left me confused and mildly betrayed.
While reading, I couldn’t stop feeling like I had accidentally wandered into The Mortal Instruments universe. There were so many similarities that it stopped feeling fresh, and instead felt like déjà vu with fangs. Because of that, the story didn’t come across as very original to me.
Unfortunately, I also wasn’t a fan of the characters or the writing style, which made it hard to connect to anything happening. This book simply was not for me, and that honestly makes me sad, because I really wanted this to be a win.
Overall, I closed this book with more questions than feelings, and none of those questions were answered. 🧛♀️💔
And speaking of the end… what in the vampire whiplash was that? On the same page where I’m fully convinced I’m reading the epilogue, the author suddenly starts introducing her other books. I literally paused, reread the page, and thought, “Oh, this must be part of the story.” Nope. Just vibes. Just ads. It completely broke the immersion and left me confused and mildly betrayed.
While reading, I couldn’t stop feeling like I had accidentally wandered into The Mortal Instruments universe. There were so many similarities that it stopped feeling fresh, and instead felt like déjà vu with fangs. Because of that, the story didn’t come across as very original to me.
Unfortunately, I also wasn’t a fan of the characters or the writing style, which made it hard to connect to anything happening. This book simply was not for me, and that honestly makes me sad, because I really wanted this to be a win.
Overall, I closed this book with more questions than feelings, and none of those questions were answered. 🧛♀️💔
January 12, 2026
Last year I read Myrtlewood Mysteries by this same author and wasn’t sure if I wanted to continue with that series. This is what I’d categorize as a sister series - set in the same world but in a the town of Burkenswood.
The book was ok. The author had a tendency to be repetitious. After what seemed like the 10th time, I’m pretty sure I know vampires drink blood and don’t have a heart beat.
The plot of also seemed to be drawn out more than it needed to be. I did find a couple of the characters to be interesting(Clara Blackwood, Juniper), but their plots were left open I’m sure based on the fact there are more books in this series.
Overall, I’m personally not connecting with the authors writing style and won’t be reading more from her.
The book was ok. The author had a tendency to be repetitious. After what seemed like the 10th time, I’m pretty sure I know vampires drink blood and don’t have a heart beat.
The plot of also seemed to be drawn out more than it needed to be. I did find a couple of the characters to be interesting(Clara Blackwood, Juniper), but their plots were left open I’m sure based on the fact there are more books in this series.
Overall, I’m personally not connecting with the authors writing style and won’t be reading more from her.
October 29, 2025
This isn’t your normal recent divorcee turned vampire without consent type of story. Gillian is turned by an unknown vampire on her way home from celebrating her divorce. She is prevented from eating her children when she arises by a family of vampires who take her and her children in and assist her through the turn. She may live at night but even as an undead being she’s more alive now than throughout her disastrous marriage. Gillian finds new friends and new problems in her new life.
I really enjoyed this mystery and new take on the newly undead, I cannot wait for the next installment. I’ve got questions.
I really enjoyed this mystery and new take on the newly undead, I cannot wait for the next installment. I’ve got questions.
December 30, 2025
A brilliant vampire book, love the changes to the run of the mill vampire myth story, love the way it includes the Myrtlewood witches and other creatures. If they did exist I could imagine (vampires that is) they'd have a very bureaucratic structure and governance system. I loved Gillian's determination and spunky reaction to being turned against her will and the fact that she is somehow now the one to pay for that with her life. She might have been downtrodden as a human, but boy she isn't now... Now I need to read all about her Mother...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2025
Good read but MANY errors
The story was good but I kept getting hung up on the absolute inconsistencies all over this. Most notably the inclusion of times that don't line up with her being a vampire as this continuously pointed out. How are they parading around the English country side at twilight? How does Clara get to the castle at 2:45 in the afternoon? Who the heck is Eva at the meeting at the sorrie? Could benefit using an editor!
The story was good but I kept getting hung up on the absolute inconsistencies all over this. Most notably the inclusion of times that don't line up with her being a vampire as this continuously pointed out. How are they parading around the English country side at twilight? How does Clara get to the castle at 2:45 in the afternoon? Who the heck is Eva at the meeting at the sorrie? Could benefit using an editor!
October 16, 2025
Finally the mysteries of Gillian
I’m a big fan of iris and her myrtlewood stories, particularly the ‘Crones’ (probably because of my age).
I’ve really enjoyed reading Gillian’s story and can’t wait for more. I hope she becomes more involved in the other series. I think she’d be a great addition to both.
If you’ve never read Iris’s stories before you’re in for a real treat.
Enjoy xx
I’m a big fan of iris and her myrtlewood stories, particularly the ‘Crones’ (probably because of my age).
I’ve really enjoyed reading Gillian’s story and can’t wait for more. I hope she becomes more involved in the other series. I think she’d be a great addition to both.
If you’ve never read Iris’s stories before you’re in for a real treat.
Enjoy xx
December 1, 2025
Frustratingly Good
The story is fast paced and delightfully deceitful. The false clues drove me bonkers and in the end I finally saw how everything clicked together. However I’d like to know more about the MC’s mystery and hopefully that’ll be revealed in the next book or at least more clues.
The story is fast paced and delightfully deceitful. The false clues drove me bonkers and in the end I finally saw how everything clicked together. However I’d like to know more about the MC’s mystery and hopefully that’ll be revealed in the next book or at least more clues.
October 10, 2025
Earl Grey
Wow ! brilliant ! this book is a real pageturner the characters are fantastic and the storyline is exciting and at times ( a lot of times ) edge of your seat I recommend this book , a very big well earned 5 stars
Wow ! brilliant ! this book is a real pageturner the characters are fantastic and the storyline is exciting and at times ( a lot of times ) edge of your seat I recommend this book , a very big well earned 5 stars
October 12, 2025
excellent read
An excellent read, from an author I’ve come to expect to deliver a good tale.
Great attention to detail, enthralling, loved every word and can’t wait to read subsequent instalments!!
An excellent read, from an author I’ve come to expect to deliver a good tale.
Great attention to detail, enthralling, loved every word and can’t wait to read subsequent instalments!!
November 5, 2025
Interesting new character
Great take on Vampires, adding in the bureaucracy that would be sure to surface in a powerful Supernatural group, as well as a. Main character who shows intelligence and strength.
Great take on Vampires, adding in the bureaucracy that would be sure to surface in a powerful Supernatural group, as well as a. Main character who shows intelligence and strength.
November 26, 2025
Enjoyable, Creative, Fun!
This book is like a warm scarf and a tea, warm, in front of a crackling 🔥 fire. It's the perfect read for a fun adventure girl who loves the magical, mystical and weird.
This book is like a warm scarf and a tea, warm, in front of a crackling 🔥 fire. It's the perfect read for a fun adventure girl who loves the magical, mystical and weird.
February 3, 2026
How an unauthorized Vampire comes to be
A Women as finally divorced her controlling husband. She goes to have drinks to celebrate. That night something happens. She wakes in a strange place a Castle. Her new life begins.
A Women as finally divorced her controlling husband. She goes to have drinks to celebrate. That night something happens. She wakes in a strange place a Castle. Her new life begins.
October 2, 2025
Awesome
Great start to a new and i hope long series . It's a great read with solid characters and lots of twist. Hope more are written soon.
Great start to a new and i hope long series . It's a great read with solid characters and lots of twist. Hope more are written soon.
October 5, 2025
Loved this.
I loved this. Cannot wait for the series to continue. Was a bit reticent that a vampire series wouldn't hold my attention but it was brilliant.
I loved this. Cannot wait for the series to continue. Was a bit reticent that a vampire series wouldn't hold my attention but it was brilliant.
October 6, 2025
iris
Not read any of Iris’s books before, really enjoyed reading this. I’m looking forward to reading more. Thank you Iris.
Not read any of Iris’s books before, really enjoyed reading this. I’m looking forward to reading more. Thank you Iris.
October 8, 2025
Always entertaining
I have enjoyed all Ms. Beagleholes' novels without exception. They are a delightful escape from the mundane. I recommend reading.
I have enjoyed all Ms. Beagleholes' novels without exception. They are a delightful escape from the mundane. I recommend reading.
October 16, 2025
This book was a joy to read from start to finish. Looking forward to the next Crones book.
October 20, 2025
Totally different take!
Vampires and witches like never before and Snark hilarity all throughout!
Such a unique vision of magic mixed with kindness and crazy!!!
Vampires and witches like never before and Snark hilarity all throughout!
Such a unique vision of magic mixed with kindness and crazy!!!
October 28, 2025
Hooked Again
Delightful, intriguing, and a compassionate linking to an unauthorized vampire! Who would have thought? Iris Beaglehold is a master storyteller and a delight to read.
Delightful, intriguing, and a compassionate linking to an unauthorized vampire! Who would have thought? Iris Beaglehold is a master storyteller and a delight to read.
November 12, 2025
Clever story.
November 23, 2025
Fun!
This book satisfied my need for intrigue and originality. It had twists and turns I was not expecting. Loved it!
This book satisfied my need for intrigue and originality. It had twists and turns I was not expecting. Loved it!
November 25, 2025
wow
this is an unexpected treasure. The author has an amazing creative talent. I am recommending it to anyone who will listen!
this is an unexpected treasure. The author has an amazing creative talent. I am recommending it to anyone who will listen!
December 25, 2025
Liked this book so much more than Accidental Magic #1. Would probably read more of this series
February 1, 2026
Amazing!
A story so different from other books written by Iris, but complementing them at the same time. Well written and easy to read and enjoy!
A story so different from other books written by Iris, but complementing them at the same time. Well written and easy to read and enjoy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews